The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program provides registered First Nations and recognized Inuit with coverage for a range of medically necessary health benefits when private, provincial or territorial health insurance plans or social program do no otherwise cover these benefits.
To be eligible, a client must be a resident of Canada, and one of the following
- A First Nations person who is registered under the Indian Act (referred to as status)
- A child less than 2 years old whose parent is an NIHB eligible client.
NIHB program benefits include
Eye & Vision Care
- General Eye Exams Every 24 months
- Specific/partial exams
- Partial & Single Procedure eye exams
- Eyeglasses every 24 months
- Replacement eyeglasses/lens (predetermination needed)
- Eyeglasses Repairs
Dental Services
- Diagnostic (exams & x-rays)
- Preventative
- Restorative (fillings)
- Endodontic (root canals)
- Prosthodontics removable (dentures, partials)
- Orthodontics (braces)
- Oral Surgery (extraction)
- Adjunctive (Sedation)
Prescription Drugs & Medication
- Prescription Drugs
- Open Benefits
- Over the Counter Drugs (OTC)
- Medications required by chronic renal failure patients
- Palliative Care
Mental Health
22 Hours each year (Counselling)
Medical Supplies & Equipment
- Hearing Aids
- Bathing & Toileting Aids
- Cushions & Protectors
- Dressing & Feeding Aids
- Lifting & Transfer Aids
- Low Vision Aids (Field Vision)
- Mobility (Wheelchairs, Walking Aids)
- Orthotic and Custom Footwear
- Prosthetics
NIHB Navigators are here to help
- Improve awareness of the NIHB benefit program, including presentations on request
- Assist clients on how to address denials and appeals
- Provide advocacy and support to clients to access NIHB
- Strengthening relationships with health providers
To learn more about the NIHB Program or have any questions, please contact.
SERDC NIHB Client Navigator
Jackie Pommer
Office: 431-977-0639
jpommer@serdc.mb.ca